The effect of dantrium on the canine urethral pressure profile

The effects of dantrolene sodium and tubocurarine on the urethral pressure profile were investigated in anesthetized dogs. A model of urethrovesical separation was used to prohibit transmission of pressure changes between the bladder and urethra. Intravesical pressure (representing smooth muscle activity) and arterial blood pressure (for cardiovascular effects) were recorded simultaneously. Tubocurarine and dantrolene sodium in pharmacologic doses had equally depressive effects on the urethral pressure profile at its distal three-fifths although a longer duration of action was observed with dantrolene. The depressive effect of dantrolene was dose-dependent. Although dantrolene sodium had no effect on blood pressure or heart rate, it did depress intravesical pressure at the 15 mg per kg of body weight dose. These findings would seem to suggest the use of dantrolene sodium in urodynamic experimental studies.